The organization was formed in 1997 in a crisis response to prevent a winter fish kill on Weyers and Carstens Lakes. DNR and the Manitowoc County Fish and Game Protective Association had refused to assume legal liability for operating the aerators on these two lakes which did not have Lake Associations to assume the responsibilities. Individual leaders from the sportsman organizations and concerned lake owners quickly formed and incorporated a County Wide Lake Association under Wisconsin Lake law requirements. Liability insurance was purchased by the newly formed Association and hired the aerators on and narrowly averted a major winter fish kill, thus Manitowoc County Lakes Association (MCLA) was born. Lake stakeholders from around the county came together and developed this mission statement:

“The Manitowoc County Lakes Association will protect and enhance the quality of area lakes and watersheds for the benefit of all.”